A few words about hardiness. There are many contributing factors as to whether a plant will survive.

• Location

Location dictates which plants we grow and the soil we have to grow them in, Whatever type of soil you have be it clay, flinty, chalky, sandy etc, always make sure you prepare the ground first with plenty of organic matter. Then if necessary add some coarse grit to help improve drainage. Many plants from the tropical regions enjoy plenty of water but do not like constant wet feet.

Towns and cities generate more heat than the wilds of dartmoor, so the air will tend to be a degree or two warmer.

• Type of cold

We all know how cold weather feels but there are many types of cold. Wet, windy, dry, of a prolonged nature, or a sudden sharp cold snap.

• Microclimates

Your own garden can contain many microclimates. A hot dry area facing South, a cool damp area where the sun rarely visits. Use these microclimates to your advantage and you will surprised and pleased at what you can grow.

• Age of plant

The age of a plant can affect the way it copes with cold snaps. More mature plants will be hardier than younger specimens.

• Provenance

If a plant grows naturally in a cooler climate, then by rights stock taken from them should be hardier than the stock from the same species growing in warmer regions or under glass.

• Winter protection

All the temperatures we quote are intended as a guide only, much depends on where you live and the site itself. If you are on top of a hill it may be well drained, ,but the winds could turn your banana leaves into shredded wheat! It is probably a good idea to plant the perimeter of the site with plenty of large shrubs or bamboo to act as a wind break, but there are some golden rules to give your plants the best chance of survival.

• Make sure that the ground will be well drained even in the depths of winter.
• Whatever you use, make sure air can still circulate to keep rotting away.
• The aim is to stop the frosts reaching the plant, so wrap well without any gaps.
• If mulching make sure it is a good thick layer, 2 inches or more.

 There are many products available to use, here are a few of them.

1. Horticultural fleece
2. Mulch
3. Straw and chicken wire
4. Plastic drainpipes stuffed with straw (make sure you drill holes through first for that all important air circulation) or use clay drainage pipes which will let the air through anyway. Place a saucer or tile on the top to keep the wet out.